The Pixel Watch 3 is the first Wear OS device I’d use over an Apple Watch

After years of rumors and the high-profile

acquisition of Fitbit
, Google finally revealed the original

Pixel Watch
back in 2022. While the first-generation smartwatch was a decent wearable, it ultimately fell short due to its sizable bezels, lackluster battery life, and software hiccups. In the truest sense of the phrase, it was a first-run device. In a vacuum, the original Pixel Watch was a decent smartwatch, but it didn’t fare well compared to the Apple Watch, Galaxy Watch, and even Google’s own Fitbit devices.The following year, Google released the

Pixel Watch 2
, adding a faster Qualcomm chip, better battery life, more accurate sensors, and a bigger display. Although the new model received a more positive reception, it still lagged behind the competition, particularly when it came to its sensors and fitness features.

Fast-forward to 2024, and right on cue, Google has released the Pixel Watch 3. Now in its third generation, the smartwatch features a larger 45mm size alongside the original 41mm version, offering a 40 percent bigger screen compared to the 41mm Pixel Watch 2. Other upgrades include a brighter display, faster charging, and more comprehensive activity tracking features.The key question surrounding the Pixel Watch 3 is whether it’s capable of matching Samsung’s chunky Galaxy Watch line and, to a lesser extent, the iPhone-exclusive Apple Watch in terms of design and functionality. Thankfully, after spending the last week with the smartwatch, Google’s wearable seems to have finally hit its stride.